Arboricultural Surveys
Castle Surveys are planning and development specialists. We understand that every site is different, from a small extension or outbuilding, to large-scale strategic development. That is why we have a range of solutions, proportionate to the needs of each client and site.
Our experience and teamwork can add value at every stage of a project from pre-purchase, through the design and planning application process, during and following construction. Our objective is to help you make the most of your investment.
If you would like to discuss a project in more detail, or for free impartial advice please get in touch.
Preliminary Feasibility Survey
In many cases, the existing trees on a site can present significant constraints, or offer a wealth of opportunities, or both! Our Preliminary Feasibility Survey can quickly identify any major constraints and where opportunities are available to improve or benefit from existing tree cover. We recommend using this service at the earliest possible stage, ideally pre-purchase. Call it the ‘cost-saver’ – in many cases having this information early can inform viability assessments and save significant time and money later in a project.
BS5837:2012 Tree Survey & Tree Constraints
When plans begin to be formally developed for a site, they should be informed by a BS5837:2012 Tree Survey & Tree Constraints Plan. This provides the baseline data including tree locations, Root Protection Area (RPA), canopy spreads, tree quality and other information on statutory protection (Tree Preservation Order, Conservation Area, Ancient Woodland etc.) All this will inform the design process and later provide the basis for the Arboricultural Impact Assessment & Method Statement reports. We provide a summary of the key constraints and work closely with project teams to find practical solutions.
All our data and drawings are available in a range of formats, we work with the latest versions of AutoCAD for seamless integration with wider design teams.
Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA)
As part of the validation criteria for planning applications where trees are present, most local authorities require an AIA to assess the direct and indirect impact of development upon trees. Depending on the scale and impact of a development, for many homeowners this may just be a brief letter or annotated plan. In other cases a full AIA report is required. We will liaise with the Local Authority, design team and all other stakeholders to deal with any issues.
This collaboration is why we have a proven track record in delivering even the most difficult schemes, avoiding unexpected delays or refusals at planning.
Arboricultural Method Statement (AMS) & Tree Protection Plans (TPP)
The AMS and TPP are generally required later in the planning process following approval, as part of planning conditions. These demonstrate how retained trees can be protected during development and provide any detail on special construction methods required to work around the trees.
This process is always tailored to the requirements of each client and site, to find the most practical and cost-effective solution.
